Pat Healy: “I was looking for a world class opponent and I certainly got it.”

Lightweight Pat Healy was one of the Strikeforce fighters caught up in the company’s recent roller-coaster ride, experiencing highs including two victories and status as a top contender, as well as lows such as the cancellation of two title-fights and uncertainty about his future prior to beating Kurt Holobaugh last month. Now, with a UFC deal in tow, Healy can finally focus fully on polishing his craft instead of wondering if/when he’ll have an opportunity to use it.

Healy has also been given a chance to make a major splash in the UFC’s pool of 155-pounders with a match-up against Jim Miller at UFC 159. Five Ounces of Pain had a chance to catch up with “Bam Bam” shortly after the bout was announced and, as might be expected, he was thrilled about finally reaching the light at the end of a relatively dark tunnel.

“I’m really excited for the opportunity to fight in the UFC. It feels really good to be a part of such a proven organization,” said Healy. “I think Miller is a top notch opponent and it will be a huge challenge to fight him. I was looking for a world class opponent and I certainly got it.”

Miller is 22-4 in his career with a win over Joe Lauzon in his last outing. He has also had his hand raised in the Octagon against the likes of Mac Danzig, Mark Bocek, Gleison Tibau, and Melvin Guillard. Meanwhile, the 29-year old Healy holds an overall record of 29-16 with notable past triumphs against Paul Daley, Dan Hardy, and Carlos Condit.